In Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, Firefighter parts are protective subpersonalities that react quickly and often dramatically when a person is overwhelmed by emotional pain. Their goal is not to cause harm, but to prevent further suffering—usually by distracting the system through compulsive behaviours, dissociation, rage, or other urgent defences.
Rather than trying to control or suppress Firefighters, IFS invites us to understand, befriend, and listen to them. This article offers a list of therapist-friendly questions designed to help build a respectful, trusting relationship with Firefighter parts.
What Are Firefighter Parts?
Firefighters typically emerge in response to Exiles—parts that carry deep burdens like shame, fear, or grief. When those Exiles become activated, Firefighters jump in to shut the emotional experience down.
They might do this by:
– Using substances, food, or sex to numb
– Dissociating from present-moment awareness
– Lashing out in rage or panic
– Creating distractions or chaos
Though their methods can be extreme, their intent is protective. That’s why IFS sees them as worthy of respect, not pathology.
Questions to Ask a Firefighter Part
These questions aim to establish trust, clarify purpose, and invite collaboration. They are not meant to interrogate, but to open a dialogue from a place of curiosity and compassion.
Establishing Contact
- “Would you be willing to let me get to know you?”
- “How do you feel about me being here?”
- “What do you want me to understand about your role?”
- “Do you know that I’m not here to make you stop or take over?”
Understanding Function and Role
- “What do you hope to accomplish when you step in?”
- “What are you trying to protect the system from?”
- “What would happen if you didn’t do what you do?”
- “How long have you been doing this job?”
Clarifying Intentions
- “Are you trying to help in some way?”
- “Do you feel appreciated for your efforts?”
- “What’s the hardest part of your job?”
Exploring Burden and Cost
- “Does it feel like you have to act quickly or urgently?”
- “Are there times you wish you didn’t have to do this?”
- “What’s it like for you when others judge your behaviour?”
- “What do you think other parts of the system think about you?”
Relational Questions
- “Are there other parts you work closely with?”
- “Do you have any Exiles you’re protecting?”
- “How do you feel about the Self being here with you?”
Invitation to Change
- “If you didn’t have to do this job anymore, what would you want to do instead?”
- “Would you be open to letting the Self help you?”
- “Can we ask the Exile you’re protecting what it needs, with your permission?”
Working with Firefighters: Key Principles
- Lead with the Self: Only engage with a Firefighter when there is enough Self-energy present—usually marked by the 8 C’s (Calm, Clarity, Curiosity, etc.).
- Respect their urgency: Firefighters often act fast to prevent re-injury. Go slowly and show appreciation for their protective role.
- No forcing: Never push a part to change. Transformation comes through trust, not coercion.
Conclusion
Firefighter parts often carry the stigma of being “too much” or “out of control,” but in IFS, they are seen as brave protectors doing their best with what they know. By asking thoughtful, compassionate questions, therapists can begin to build a relationship with these parts—leading to deeper healing for the whole system.
References
- Schwartz, R. C. (2001). Introduction to the Internal Family Systems Model. Trailheads Publications. ISBN: 0972148000.
- Anderson, F. S., Schwartz, R. C., & Sweezy, M. (2017). Internal Family Systems Skills Training Manual. PESI Publishing.
- Sweezy, M., & Ziskind, E. (Eds.). (2013). Internal Family Systems Therapy: New Dimensions. Routledge.